Cambodia, Rwanda Talks Highlight Preparations for 2026 Francophonie Summit

KIGALI, Rwanda (Nov. 19, 2025) — Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister Prak Sokhonn, who also serves as foreign minister, concluded an official visit to Rwanda this week aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and preparing for Cambodia’s upcoming role as host of the 20th Francophonie Summit.

On Nov. 18, Sokhonn led a delegation to Kigali, where he attended a wreath‑laying ceremony at the Kigali Genocide Memorial before holding talks with Rwandan Foreign Minister Olivier J.P. Nduhungirehe. The two ministers signed a memorandum of understanding establishing bilateral consultations between their ministries and an agreement granting visa exemptions for holders of diplomatic and official passports.

Sokhonn also paid a courtesy call on Rwandan Prime Minister Justin Nsengiyumva, conveying greetings from Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet. Nsengiyumva welcomed the delegation and said the new agreements would pave the way for deeper cooperation in financial services, air connectivity and other areas of mutual benefit.

Later in the day, Sokhonn met with Louise Mushikiwabo, secretary general of the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie, to discuss preparations for the 2026 Francophonie Summit in Siem Reap, including its theme, logo and logistics.

Throughout the meetings, Sokhonn briefed counterparts on Cambodia’s commitment to maintaining a ceasefire along the Thai border, citing the Oct. 26 joint declaration signed in Kuala Lumpur and witnessed by U.S. President Donald Trump and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.